Philadelphia worker recovering after tumble from aerial lift

The investigation is reportedly still underway to try to determine how a construction worker at the Philadelphia Navy Yard wound up tumbling from a cherry-picker lift. The 27-year-old man is apparently still hospitalized and the extent of his injuries hasn't been released to the public.

According to the reports available, the man was part of a demolition crew working at the yard on Monday. Police say he was up in the lift and it suddenly malfunctioned. The resulting jolt was apparently enough to hurl the man out of the work platform and into the air. He plummeted to the ground, landing at the foot of the machine.

It's unclear how high up the man was at the time this all happened. After his spill, officials say he began complaining of pain and that's when he was taken to the hospital.

The construction trade is one of those professions that are known to be particularly high-risk. There are safety precautions that are supposed to be enforced, but often are not. A broad array of dangerous equipment can cause serious injury or death if it is isn't properly maintained. The companies that employ these devices also have the obligation to make sure those who use them are properly trained to avoid possible workplace injuries.

When accidents do occur and injuries result, or worse, a death, workers' compensation is the first line of recompense that victims are supposed to be able to rely on. But just like any insurance, such policies tend to be administered by the companies that offer them with a priority placed on maximizing revenue and minimizing payouts.

To be confident that a victim's needs will be fully met and workers' compensation benefits are fully delivered, it is wise to consult an experienced attorney.

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